“News from the Hut”
for American Legion Post #142; Hominy, Oklahoma.
>>> by Gary Lanham

We all have to eat, it’s a natural part of our existence. I believe among all other creatures on God’s creation we are unique in that we take emotional and social enjoyment eating in the company of friends (that sometimes includes family; sometimes). I reflect on the New Testament and note the miracle of feeding the 5,000, as well as the Last Supper. So, it seems natural that the Hut puts on some of the finest ‘get-togethers’ and last Saturday was no exception.

We hosted the Chicken Noodle Lunch, Saturday October 25th, 2014 at the Hut. It was a lot of fun, and we had a great turnout. The crew worked very hard it paid off. This hearty main meal was crafted by Jerry Sebert and set up and cleaned up after by our great crew. There was corn and green beans, chocolate cake (I don’t know who made that, but wow). I also experienced something akin to a religious experience when I tried the best bread pudding I ever had. This had me thinking about the monthly meal we enjoy every month and especially our Monday Koffee Klatch. Dan Rathbun and the usual hard working crew perform weekly duties but without the contributions of a long time member like Eli Prater it would not be possible. Eli is someone everyone knows, been a long time citizen of the area and our resident Korean War era veteran. I have enjoyed listening to many stories with Eli. His strong faith and consistent attendance is on Monday mornings are an inspiration. Without veterans like Eli there would be no Hut. And that goes for the others Dick Pope, John Fields, Rex Mantooh, Babe Long, and Jack Cross. Salute!

Also remember it’s time for the Main Street Treats downtown event! Thursday October 30th. I guess that qualifies as eating to some extent. It is on Thursday this year to avoid conflict with the Friday night football game. I always enjoy this activity because the kids come from Cleveland, Wynona, Fairfax, as well as our local kiddos and pack both sides of the street. There are always a few outrageous and creative costumes. The Hut’s Auxiliary volunteers will run the candy table as usual and it is always busy. It kicks off at 6:00 PM so get in line! Our crew will show up a little earlier in front of the Morris Field Museum.

Here is another reminder that Post members will participating in the Fairfax Veterans Day Parade on November 8th, put on by Retired Seaman Leon Hendrix and Eva Donovan [formerly married to a USMC veteran] from Fairfax. Details are in this paper, so as I have covered it in the past I won’t belabor the details. Suffice to say, American Legion Post 142 will represent in a robust manner as always.

On the 11th (Veteran’s Day) the high school will host an event to honor America’s heroes who answered the call through the years. I attended last year and was frankly blown away. What an impressive presentation by the students followed by a great lunch catered by Mac’s BBQ (more eating). It starts at 11:30 am till 12:30 am and veterans are welcome.

I would encourage you to participate. These activities are financed in large part by the Post and we always have had great support from the community. Please give us a hand. Call Jack Cross 918-885-2388. He will be happy to receive all donations.

Remember our regular meetings are the first and third Thursdays at 7:00 PM (6th & 20th of November). Monday morning Koffee Klatch meetings in October into November are still up and running starting around 0700 till about 0900. Thanks to Jerry, Dan, Eli, and Dick Pope there is usually biscuits and gravy and maybe a waffle or two and always a cup of Joe (coffee to the civilians). If you are a veteran come on by. If you have a good story it may end up in print!